Jack Potter in “the Bride Comes to Yellow Sky”

1378 Words6 Pages
The legend of the Wild West is arguably one of the most popular cultural myths of American history. Most people in the Western World recognize the traditional depiction of this era, which consists of a rather edgy and independent lifestyle. The stereotypical lawmen of the Wild West were portrayed as independent, strong, and rigid men. Because of these characteristics, it was their job in maintaining the peace of their town. As the idea of Manifest Destiny and the determination to become a more civilized America, the more the legend of the West diminished. (Lehti, 12) The American social development has been continually formed by the opportunities offered by the westward expansion. (Turner, 1) Set on the Texas frontier, “The Bride Comes to Yellow Sky”, written by Stephen Crane is a short story in which the protagonist, Jack Potter, is a dynamic character who plays a significant role in portraying the effect that the civilized East inevitably had on the Wild West. Jack Potter’s impulsive decision to get married essentially symbolized his literal marriage to the East. Jack’s character develops through obvious elements of characterization such as appearance, speech, actions, thoughts, feelings etc. Through fundamental elements of characterization, the reader is able to see the plot unfold specifically through his character, actions and thoughts and feelings. As town marshal of Yellow Sky, Jack Potter is a prominent and respected member of the community. He undoubtedly also has personal ties with and is largely devoted to the members of his town. Depicted as a stereotypical lawman of the West, it is his duty to fight the town troublemaker, Scratchy Wilson, whenever he goes into his drunken rages. (Crane) Jack Potter fits the classic description of a fearless, independent town sheriff of the Wild West. He always carries a gun, stops gunfights and ensures the town is safe.
Open Document